Former Nigerian Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has called on the new factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Turaki, to rebuild the party, address past mistakes, and position it as a stabilizing force in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Babangida made the appeal when Turaki and selected members of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) paid him a courtesy visit at his Hilltop residence in Minna, the capital of Niger State.

The meeting reportedly focused on party renewal, national stability, and the need to strengthen political structures across the country.

The former military president commended the party leadership for their support of the Niger State government and people during what he described as one of their “most difficult” periods, while emphasizing the PDP’s deep national roots.

He noted that the PDP remains one of the most structurally grounded political organizations in Nigeria, recalling his past efforts to establish a two-party system, which faced resistance from the political class.

Babangida encouraged Turaki to prioritize tact, broad consultation, and inclusive leadership as he undertakes the task of rebuilding the party.

“Earlier, you acknowledged that the party made mistakes and has begun steps to correct them. I urge you to act with tact, seek people’s opinions, and work toward a peaceful and progressive party. You have the capacity to do it, and I wish you well,” he said.

To highlight the lasting influence of party structures in communities, Babangida recounted an incident involving a military administrator he appointed in Niger State, who met a resident unaware that a military government was in place and insisted his loyalty remained with President Shehu Shagari and the then-ruling NPN. The episode, he said, demonstrates how political parties become deeply rooted in local consciousness.

In response, Turaki thanked Babangida for his consistent guidance and said the PDP would continue to benefit from his leadership experience and knowledge of Nigeria’s political evolution.

“We are committed to resetting this party, strengthening its organs, and restoring its winning spirit ahead of 2027,” he said.

He added that the delegation initially intended a special appreciation visit, but recent abductions in Niger State required combining the courtesy call with a condolence visit.